World Happiness Report for Jamaica 2024
- Overall Happiness Rank Jamaica: 67
- Happiness Score Jamaica:5.842
Happiness is a subjective concept that has long been debated by philosophers, psychologists, and economists alike. However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in quantifying happiness and using it as a measure of a nation’s overall well-being. This is where the concept of the Happiness Index comes into play.
What is the Happiness Index?
The Happiness Index is a measure that attempts to quantify the overall happiness and life satisfaction of a country’s population. It is based on the idea that traditional economic indicators, such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), do not fully capture the overall well-being of a society. The Happiness Index takes into account various factors that contribute to an individual’s sense of happiness and life satisfaction, including social support, freedom to make life choices, healthy life expectancy, and perceptions of corruption.
How is the Happiness Index Calculated?
The Happiness Index is calculated through a combination of subjective and objective data. The primary source of data is the Gallup World Poll, which is a survey conducted in over 160 countries. The survey asks respondents to rate their overall life satisfaction on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being the worst possible life and 10 being the best possible life.
In addition to the life satisfaction score, the Happiness Index also takes into account the following factors:
- GDP per capita: This is a measure of a country’s economic output and standard of living.
- Social support: This factor measures the extent to which individuals have supportive relationships and love in their lives.
- Healthy life expectancy: This is a measure of the number of years an individual is expected to live in good health.
- Freedom to make life choices: This factor measures the extent to which individuals are able to make decisions about their lives without external constraints.
- Generosity: This factor measures the extent to which individuals engage in charitable activities and donate to others.
- Perceptions of corruption: This factor measures the extent to which individuals perceive their society to be free from corruption.
These factors are weighted and combined to produce an overall Happiness Index score for each country.
What Does the Happiness Index Affect?
The Happiness Index has significant implications for policymaking and societal well-being. Countries with higher Happiness Index scores are generally considered to have better overall quality of life and well-being for their citizens. This can have positive impacts on various aspects of society, including:
- Economic productivity: Happier individuals tend to be more productive and engaged in their work, which can contribute to a country’s economic growth.
- Public health: Higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction are associated with better physical and mental health outcomes, which can reduce healthcare costs and improve overall well-being.
- Social cohesion: Societies with higher levels of happiness tend to have stronger social bonds and lower levels of conflict and crime.
- Environmental sustainability: Happier individuals may be more likely to engage in environmentally-friendly behaviors and support policies that promote sustainability.
By focusing on the factors that contribute to happiness and well-being, policymakers can develop strategies to improve the overall quality of life for their citizens. The Happiness Index provides a valuable tool for measuring progress and identifying areas where improvements can be made.
Short information
- Abbreviation of Jamaica. JM.
Jamaica is a Caribbean island nation with a parliamentary democracy. It is known for its reggae music, vibrant culture, and stunning beaches.
- Jamaica is the birthplace of reggae music, popularized by artists like Bob Marley.
- The country is famous for its spicy cuisine, including jerk chicken and ackee and saltfish.
- Jamaica has a significant bauxite mining industry, contributing to its economy.
Jamaica – Overview
Early History:
The original inhabitants of Jamaica were the Taíno people, an Arawakan-speaking group of Native Americans. The Taíno were skilled agriculturalists and navigators who arrived in Jamaica around 600 AD.
Colonial Period:
Christopher Columbus landed in Jamaica in 1494, claiming the island for Spain. The Spanish enslaved the Taíno people, and by the mid-17th century, the population had been decimated. In 1655, the British invaded and conquered the island from the Spanish, establishing a colony and importing African slaves to work on sugar cane plantations.
Independence and Modern Era:
Jamaica gained independence from the United Kingdom on August 6, 1962, with Sir Alexander Bustamante as the first Prime Minister. In the following years, Jamaica experienced political unrest and violence due to tensions between rival political parties. The country’s economy also faced challenges, leading to periods of economic stagnation and high debt levels.
Current Political Situation:
Jamaica is a parliamentary democracy with a bicameral legislature. The Prime Minister is the head of government, and the Governor-General represents the British Monarch as the head of state. The current Prime Minister is Andrew Holness of the Jamaica Labour Party, elected in 2020.
International Relations:
Jamaica is a member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Organization of American States (OAS), and the Commonwealth of Nations. The country maintains close ties with its Caribbean neighbors and has friendly relations with the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Human Development and Economy:
Jamaica’s economy is heavily dependent on services, including tourism and finance. Other important sectors include agriculture, mining, and manufacturing. Despite its challenges, Jamaica has made strides in improving human development indicators, including education and health.
Cultural Highlights:
Jamaica is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, including music (reggae, ska, dancehall), cuisine (jerk dishes, ackee and saltfish), and vibrant arts and literature. The island is also home to various religious traditions, including Christianity, Rastafarianism, and spiritual practices derived from African and indigenous roots.
Challenges and Opportunities:
Jamaica faces ongoing challenges related to crime, poverty, and economic growth. However, the country’s strategic location, natural resources, and talented workforce present opportunities for further development, particularly in sectors like tourism, renewable energy, and information technology.
Travel Tips for Jamaica
Best Times to Visit: The peak season is mid-December to mid-April, when the weather is dry and sunny. Shoulder seasons (late spring and fall) offer fewer crowds and lower prices.
Cultural Etiquette: Jamaicans are warm and friendly, but avoid public displays of anger or disrespect. Greet elders with respect, and ask permission before taking photographs of locals.
Safety Precautions: Exercise caution in some areas, especially at night. Avoid isolated areas, and don’t carry valuable items or large amounts of cash. Stay in well-lit areas and use authorized taxis or transportation.
Must-See Landmarks: Explore the Bob Marley Museum, hike the Blue Mountains, visit the Dunn’s River Falls, and explore the historical sites of Port Royal and Spanish Town.
Culinary Experiences: Try Jamaica’s famous jerk chicken or pork, ackee and saltfish (the national dish), and refreshing tropical juices like soursop and June plum.
Living in Jamaica
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Jamaica is relatively low compared to many Western countries, but it varies depending on location and lifestyle.
Housing: Options range from apartments and condos in urban areas to houses and villas in suburban and rural areas. Expats often choose gated communities for added security.
Main facts
Location
Jamaica is an island nation in the Caribbean Sea, located south of Cuba and west of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. It is the third-largest island in the Caribbean and is situated in the Greater Antilles archipelago.
Map References
Jamaica is located in the Caribbean region, which forms part of North America.
Area – Comparative
With a total land area of approximately 10,991 square kilometers (4,244 square miles), Jamaica is slightly smaller than the state of Connecticut in the United States.
Land Boundaries and Border Countries
Jamaica has no land boundaries, as it is an island nation.
Coastline
Jamaica has a coastline of approximately 1,022 kilometers (635 miles), featuring white-sand beaches, numerous bays, and the world-famous Blue Mountains.
Maritime Claims
Jamaica claims territorial sea up to 12 nautical miles, an exclusive economic zone of 200 nautical miles, and a continental shelf of 200 nautical miles or to the edge of the continental margin.
Climate
Jamaica has a tropical climate, with hot and humid conditions throughout the year. The island experiences a wet season from May to November and a dry season from December to April.
Terrain
Jamaica’s terrain is primarily mountainous, with the Blue Mountains as the dominant feature. The island also features coastal plains, rolling hills, and numerous rivers and streams.
Elevation Extremes
The highest elevation in Jamaica is the Blue Mountain Peak, standing at 2,256 meters (7,402 feet) above sea level. The lowest point is the Caribbean Sea, at sea level.
Natural Resources
Jamaica’s major natural resources include bauxite, gypsum, limestone, and mineral springs.
Major Bodies of Water
The major bodies of water in Jamaica include the Caribbean Sea, which surrounds the island, and several notable rivers, such as the Rio Grande, Black River, and Martha Brae River.
Natural Hazards
Jamaica is susceptible to hurricanes, earthquakes, and landslides.
Geography – Notes
Jamaica’s diverse landscape and coastal features make it a popular tourist destination. The island is also known for its rich biodiversity and unique flora and fauna. Environmental conservation efforts are crucial to preserving Jamaica’s natural resources and ecosystems.
- Forest Area (% of land area): 30.90%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
- Co2 Emissions: 8,225. CO2 emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide gas into the atmosphere, primarily from the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy production, transportation, and industrial processes.
- Agricultural Land( %). 41.00%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
- Geographic Coordinates: 18.109581-77.297508.
- Capital: The capital of Jamaica is Kingston, Jamaica
- Major Cities:
- Kingston – Population: 670,000
- Montego Bay – Population: 110,000
- Spanish Town – Population: 147,152
- Portmore – Population: 182,000
- Population: 2,948,279
- Area(Km2): 10991
- Population Density( P/Km²):273. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
- Calling Code:1876
- Official Language(s):Jamaica is English (official) (100%).
- Currency: JMD
Main Economic Indicators
Jamaica’s economy is a mixed economy, with both state and private enterprise participation. It has a small but diversified economy that relies heavily on services, primarily tourism and finance. Key economic challenges include high public debt, low productivity growth, and high levels of crime and corruption. Notable economic policies have focused on fiscal consolidation, improving the business environment, and expanding the logistics industry.
Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 7.3% (2021 est.), 4.8% (2020 est.)
Source: CIA World Factbook
Credit Ratings
Fitch: B+ (Stable)
Moody’s: B2 (Stable)
Standard & Poor’s: B+ (Stable)
As of May 2023
GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin
Agriculture: 6.8%
Industry: 20.6%
Services: 72.6%
(2017 est.)
Key Agricultural and Industrial Products
Agricultural products: sugarcane, bananas, coffee, citrus, yams, ackees, vegetables
Industrial products: tourism, bauxite/alumina, agro-processing, light manufactures, rum, cement, telecommunication, financial services
Labor Force
Total labor force: 1.319 million (2021 est.)
Ranked 138th in the world
Current Account Balance
Current account balance: -$1.066 billion (2021 est.), -$261 million (2020 est.)
Ranked 162nd in the world
Exports and Imports
Exports: $1.307 billion (2021 est.)
Key partners: United States, Canada, Netherlands, Russia, United Kingdom
Main exports: alumina, bauxite, sugar, rum, coffee, yams, beverages, chemicals, apparel, mineral fuels
Imports: $5.586 billion (2021 est.)
Key partners: United States, Trinidad and Tobago, China, Japan, Mexico
Main imports: food and other consumer goods, industrial supplies, fuel, parts and accessories, machinery and transport equipment, construction materials
Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold
Foreign exchange and gold reserves: $4.093 billion (31 December 2021 est.)
- GDP (Current US$):$16,458,071,068. It represents a country’s gross domestic product measured in current US dollars. Higher values indicate a larger economy and economic output.
- Tax Revenue (% of GDP): 26.80%. It refers to the amount of tax revenue collected by the government, expressed as a percentage of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Higher values indicate a higher tax burden relative to the size of the economy.
- Total Tax Rate (% of commercial profits): 35.10%. This is the sum of all taxes payable by businesses, expressed as a percentage of their commercial profits. Higher values indicate a higher tax burden on businesses.
- Gasoline Price. $1.11. It refers to the cost of one liter or gallon of gasoline/petrol. Higher values indicate more expensive gasoline prices for consumers and businesses.
- Minimum wage. $1.33. It refers to the lowest legally mandated hourly wage that employers must pay their workers. Higher values indicate a higher minimum level of pay for low-wage workers.
- Unemployment Rate (%): 8.00%. It represents the percentage of the labor force that is unemployed and actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate more joblessness in the economy.
Social Indicators
1. National Identity
Nationality: Jamaican(s)
Adjective: Jamaican
2. Ethnic Groups
– Black 92.1%
– Mixed 6.1%
– East Indian 0.8%
– Other 0.4%
– Unspecified 0.7%
3. Religions
– Protestant 64.8% (includes Seventh-day Adventist 12.1%, Pentecostal 11%, Baptist 7.2%, Church of God 4.8%, Anglican 3.6%, United Church 2.1%, Methodist 1.6%, Jehovah’s Witness 1.5%, Moravian 1.1%, Brethren 0.8%, Congregational 0.7%, other Christian 18.2%)
– Roman Catholic 2.2%
– Other/Unspecified 21.3% (includes Rastafarian 5.5%, other 7.3%, unspecified 8.5%)
– None 12.9%
4. Age Structure
– 0-14 years: 22.61%
– 15-64 years: 67.74%
– 65 years and over: 9.65%
5. Dependency Ratios
Total Dependency Ratio: 47.6
Youth Dependency Ratio: 31
Elderly Dependency Ratio: 16.6
6. Median Age
Total: 30.9 years
Male: 30.1 years
Female: 31.7 years
7. Lifestyle Indicators
Obesity Rate: 25.3% (2016)
Alcohol Consumption: 3.8 liters of pure alcohol per capita per year (2010)
Tobacco Use: 12.8% of adults (2015)
- Life Expectancy at Birth: 74.4. Life Expectancy at Birth refers to the estimated average number of years a newborn is expected to live based on current mortality rates. Higher values indicate better health outcomes and living conditions in a country or region.
- Literacy Rate (% of adults): 88%. It refers to the percentage of the population aged 15 and above who can read and write with understanding of a short simple statement about their everyday life. Higher literacy rates indicate better educational attainment within a population.
- Birth Rate:16.1. Birth Rate is the total number of live births per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher birth rates indicate a larger share of the population being born each year.
- Death Rate:9. Death Rate is the number of deaths per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher death rates indicate more people dying annually within a population.
- Fertility Rate: 1.98. Fertility Rate is the average number of children a woman would have over her reproductive years based on current birth rates. Higher fertility rates indicate larger family sizes and population growth.
- Internet Users (% of population): 49.9%. Internet Users (% of population) refers to the percentage of the total population in a country or region that has access to and uses the internet. Higher values indicate greater internet penetration and connectivity among the population.
- Urban Population: 1,650,594. Urban Population refers to the percentage or number of people living in urban areas or cities within a country or region. Higher urban population values indicate greater urbanization and concentration of people in cities compared to rural areas.
- Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure):23.70%. Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure) represents the portion of total health care costs that individuals pay directly out of their own pockets, rather than being covered by insurance or government programs. Higher values indicate greater personal financial burden for health care expenses.
Infrastructure and Services
Military and Security Forces
Jamaica’s military is comprised of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), which includes the Jamaica Regiment (Army), Jamaica Coast Guard, and Air Wing (Air Force). The JDF also has a Special Operations Regiment for counterterrorism and other specialized missions.
The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is the national police service responsible for maintaining internal security and law enforcement.
Military Expenditures
Military spending as a percentage of GDP for Jamaica:
- 2017: 0.7%
- 2018: 0.7%
- 2019: 0.6%
- 2020: 0.6%
- 2021: 0.6%
Jamaica’s military expenditure ranks 145th globally according to the latest available data.
Personnel Strengths
Jamaica has approximately 8,500 active-duty military personnel, with the following breakdown by service branch:
- Jamaica Regiment (Army): 6,000
- Jamaica Coast Guard: 1,200
- Air Wing (Air Force): 300
The Jamaica Constabulary Force (National Police) has an additional 12,000 personnel.
Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions
Jamaica’s military equipment includes:
- Ground Forces: Light armored vehicles, infantry fighting vehicles, artillery, and small arms
- Air Force: Transport aircraft, helicopters, and maritime patrol aircraft
- Navy: Patrol craft and coastal defense vessels
Jamaica has ongoing programs to modernize its military equipment, including the acquisition of new transport aircraft and coastal defense vessels.
Military Service Age and Obligation
Jamaica has a voluntary military service program. The minimum age for voluntary military service is 18 years. There is no mandatory military service requirement.
Military Deployments
Jamaica currently contributes personnel to the following international peacekeeping missions:
- United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA): Approximately 200 troops
Strategic Military Notes
Jamaica’s defense strategy focuses on territorial defense, maritime security, and disaster response. The JDF plays a key role in countering transnational criminal activities, including drug trafficking and illegal migration.
Jamaica is a member of the Regional Security System (RSS), a collective defense organization for the Caribbean region. The JDF participates in joint military exercises and security cooperation initiatives with regional partners and allies.
- Armed Forces Size: 4000. Armed Forces Size refers to the total number of active personnel serving in a country’s military forces, including the army, navy, air force, and other branches. Higher values indicate a larger military presence and personnel.
- Physicians per Thousand: Number of doctors per 1,000 people is 1.31
- Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 66.00%. This is the percentage of the total population aged 15 and older that is economically active, meaning they are either employed or actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate a greater proportion of the working-age population engaged in the labor force.